Why is EYFS important?

The pupils will learn through exploration which develops their curiosity and imagination.  They are taught through a thematic curriculum which broadens the pupils’ experiences and language skills.  Reading and stories are at the heart of the curriculum which further enriches pupils’ understanding and language.  Pupils learn how to get along with each other and how to become independent and resilient learners so they are well equipped to meet the challenges of Year 1 and beyond.

We are teaching, inspiring, creating and nurturing lifelong learners!

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) covers your child’s learning and development from birth to age five. At our school, we believe that every child deserves the best possible start in life. We aim to create a safe, happy and nurturing environment where children can grow into confident, curious and independent learners. 

Our EYFS setting includes two reception classes and a large, secure outdoor learning area. The spaces are designed to encourage effective learning, allowing children to access a rich variety of resources and experiences. 

Areas of Learning 

Our curriculum follows the statutory EYFS Framework, which sets out seven areas of learning and development. 

The three prime areas are: 

• Personal, Social and Emotional Development 
• Physical Development 
• Communication and Language 

The four specific areas are: 

• Literacy 
• Mathematics 
• Understanding the World 
• Expressive Arts and Design 

Learning takes place through a balance of adult-led and child-initiated activities, both indoors and outdoors. Well-planned opportunities underpin everything we do, ensuring that learning is engaging, purposeful and fun. The use of our indoor and outdoor spaces provides opportunities for children to explore, investigate and develop key skills in meaningful contexts. 

Continuous Provision 

Our classrooms are organised around continuous provision, which means children always have access to thoughtfully planned resources and learning opportunities that support their development across all areas of the curriculum. Continuous provision allows children to revisit and deepen their understanding through play and exploration, encouraging independence, creativity and curiosity. 

Our skilled practitioners enhance this provision through careful observation, rich vocabulary, interaction and extending learning through high-quality questioning and modelling. The learning environment is continually adapted to reflect children’s interests and next steps, ensuring that every child is appropriately challenged and supported. 

 Characteristics of Effective Learning 

We place a strong emphasis on developing the Characteristics of Effective Learning - how children learn, not just what they learn. These include: 

• Playing and exploring – finding out and having a go 
• Active learning – keep on trying and enjoying achievements 
• Creating and thinking critically – having their own ideas and making links 

By nurturing these characteristics, we help children become resilient, motivated and confident learners who are well-prepared for the next stage of their education. 

 Daily Learning and Phonics 

Every day, our children take part in Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised phonics sessions. These carefully structured lessons help children develop strong early reading and writing skills - building the foundations for a lifelong love of books and language. Progress in phonics is monitored closely so that any child who needs extra practice receives timely, targeted support. 

Daily maths - to be updated.

 Baseline Assessments 

Starting school is an exciting milestone for every child. To ensure each child’s learning journey begins at the right level, we complete internal and, where required, external baseline assessments when they join Reception. These assessments help us understand what children can already do and where they may need support. We work closely with both pre-school providers and parents to build a full picture of each child’s abilities, interests and experiences so that learning can be carefully tailored to their individual needs. 

This information forms the foundation of our ongoing assessment process, enabling us to track progress, celebrate successes and ensure all children make strong progress across the Early Years. 

Ongoing Assessment and Adaptation 

Ongoing assessment is at the heart of our EYFS practice. Staff regularly observe children as they play, learn and interact. Staff use these observations to identify progress, achievements and next steps. This responsive approach ensures that planning is meaningful and closely matched to each child’s stage of development. 

We use a range of additional resources and adult support to adapt learning experiences effectively. Teachers and Learning Support assistants work with individuals and small groups to reinforce skills, address gaps and provide enrichment where needed. Whether through targeted language activities, fine motor skill development or focused early maths support, our flexible use of adults and resources ensures that every child can thrive and achieve their full potential.